High-flow fluid valve block

ABSTRACT

A valve block includes a fluid-transfer plate with multiple inlet bores connecting to a common inlet channel, and multiple outlet bores connecting to a common outlet channel. The inlet bores and the outlet bores are arranged in a curved shape. The valve block also includes a pressure plate and diaphragm aligned and connected to the fluid-transfer plate in a way that allows pressurized material in the pressure plate to control the state of the channels formed by the inlet and outlet bores.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.16/550,550, filed Aug. 26, 2019, incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety, which is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.15/102,989 (National Stage of PCT/US2014/069580), filed Jun. 9, 2016,incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, which claims priorityfrom Provisional Application U.S. Application 61/914,164, filed Dec. 10,2013, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Simulated moving bed (SMB) chromatography utilizes a number ofinterconnecting adsorbent beds (columns) containing solid phasechromatography media. Inlet ports for feedstock, desorbent, and otheroptional input streams and outlet ports for raffinate, extract, andother optional output streams are placed at specific points in theseries of columns, and a series of valves and tubing and/or channelsbetween the columns connects flow of the mobile phase to provide acontinuous loop. Liquid flow is controlled by two or more pumpsconnected to the inlet and/or outlet streams. At defined intervals, thepositions of the inlet and outlet ports are switched in the samedirection as the flow, simulating a countercurrent movement of the solidphase relative to the mobile phase. Feedstock introduced into the firstcolumn begins to separate into components contained therein as flowensues, with less retained species migrating in the direction of fluidflow and being collected at the raffinate port. The more retainedspecies remains preferentially associated with the solid phase and iscollected at the extract port. By regulating the switch times and flowrates of feedstock, desorbent, raffinate, and extract, a standing wavepattern is established, allowing for continuous flow of separatedproducts from the system. The number of input streams, output streams,and operations performed in the columns can be modified according to therequirements of the separation and capabilities of the valving system.For example, in addition to a 2-input, 2-output SMB process performedunder isocratic conditions, with an appropriate valve system it ispossible to perform continuous multicolumn processes which utilizedifferent solvent conditions (or solutions) in different columns, suchas in affinity chromatography where a target protein binds to the solidphase in a first solution, contaminants are washed away in a secondsolution, the target protein is eluted in a third solution, and thesolid phase is regenerated in a fourth solution.

For large scale industrial systems, the bed volume is so great comparedto void volumes of liquid between columns that even elaborate valvesystems involving extensive conduits do not interfere with the process.There has been a recent trend, however, in scaling SMB smaller to pilotand sub-pilot volumes, as the need for more sophisticated applicationshas arisen in the fine chemicals and pharmaceutical fields requiringgram to kilogram quantities of product.

SUMMARY

In an illustrative embodiment, an example valve block is disclosed. Thevalve block includes a fluid-transfer plate, a pressure plate, and adiaphragm disposed between the fluid-transfer plate and the pressureplate. The pressure plate includes a recess fillable with a material ona first side of the pressure plate. The fluid transfer plate includes aninlet channel, an outlet channel, a plurality of inlet bores extendingfrom the inlet channel to a second side of the fluid transfer plate, anda plurality of outlet bores extending from the outlet channel to thesecond side of the fluid transfer plate. Both the inlet bores and theoutlet bores are arranged in a curved shape. The inlet channel, theoutlet channel, the plurality of inlet bores, and the plurality ofoutlet bores are contained within a valve of the valve block. Thediaphragm is disposed between the first side of the pressure plate andthe second side of the fluid transfer plate. The diaphragm is configuredto prevent fluid flow from at least one of the plurality of inlet boresto at least one of the plurality of outlet bores when the recess isfilled with the material.

In another illustrative embodiment, an example valve block is disclosed.The valve block includes a plurality of valves, each including an inletchannel and an outlet channel formed into a first surface of thefluid-transfer plate. The plurality of valves additionally includes aplurality of inlet bores extending from the inlet channel to a secondsurface of the fluid-transfer plate and a plurality of outlet boresextending from the outlet channel to the second surface of thefluid-transfer plate. Both the inlet bores and the outlet bores arearranged in a curved shape. The plurality of valves further includes arecess fillable with a material on a first surface of a pressure plateand a diaphragm disposed between the second surface of thefluid-transfer plate and the first surface of the pressure plate. Thediaphragm is configured to selectively control flow of a fluid from theplurality of inlet bores to the plurality of outlet bores.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Illustrative embodiments of the invention will hereafter be describedwith reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like numeralsdenote like elements.

FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of a control system interacting with asimplified valve system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.

FIG. 2 shows a disassembled, exploded, perspective view of a valve blockin accordance with an illustrative embodiment.

FIG. 3 shows a top-perspective view of a fluid-transfer plate in a valveblock according to an illustrative embodiment.

FIG. 4 shows a bottom perspective view of a fluid-transfer valveaccording to an illustrative embodiment.

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a pressure plate in a valve blockaccording to an illustrative embodiment.

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a cross-section of an assembled valveblock in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.

FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of an assembled valve block with seveninlet bores and seven outlet bores in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment.

FIGS. 8A and 8B show cross-sections of an assembled valve block withseven inlet bores and seven outlet bores in accordance with anillustrative embodiment.

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of an assembled valve block with fiveinlet bores and five outlet bores in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment.

FIGS. 10A and 10B show cross-sections of an assembled valve block withfive inlet bores and five outlet bores in accordance with anillustrative embodiment.

FIGS. 11A-11F show various views of an assembled valve block comprisingmultiple valves in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.

FIGS. 12A-12G show various views of an assembled valve block comprisingmultiple valves in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a table that shows the results of an experiment regardingdeformation of a diaphragm of a valve in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In designing specialized valve systems for controlling the scaled-downSMB applications, the present inventors have recognized several issueswith the current valve designs. For example, typical valves that employmoving parts, such as rotary valves, encounter the problem that fluidand solute mixtures tend to have a deleterious effect on the reliabilityof moving parts and, therefore, on the reliability of the valves. Asanother example, systems that employ flexible diaphragms (or membranes)may also suffer reliability issues due to over-stretching of thediaphragm or contact between the diaphragm and edges/corners ofstructures on the plates. Further still, some valve systems generateunacceptably high pressure and/or fluid linear velocity at flow ratesrequired for various applications.

Some applications for valve systems with a flexible diaphragm requireflow rates and/or pressures that are higher than existing flexiblediaphragm valve systems can accommodate. For example, existing diaphragmvalve systems can have a maximum flow rate on the scale of millilitersper minute (e.g., up to 500 milliliters/minute (mL/min)) or 100 poundsper square inch (psi) fluid pressure. Various embodiments of the presentdisclosure can accommodate flow rates on the scale of liters per minute(e.g., 2.5 liters/minute (L/min)) and 290 pounds per square inch (psi)fluid pressure. For example, in an illustrative embodiment of thepresent disclosure, a valve block can be operated between ambienttemperatures (e.g., 20° Celsius (C)-25° C.) and 65° C. with flow ratesbetween 0.1 mL/min and 2.5 L/min at fluid pressures up to 290 pounds persquare inch (psi). An example fluid that flows through the valve blockcan have no suspended solids and can range from 0.2 centipoise (cP)-3 cPviscosity. In some embodiments, the viscosity of the fluid can begreater than 3 cP. One specific example can be for monoclonal antibody(mAb) capture from a culture fluid on a production scale. In such anexample, the valve block can be operated at flow rates between 100mL/min and 2.5 L/min with an aqueous process fluid with proteinconcentrations up to 25 milligrams/milliliter (mg/mL), with up to 1molar (M) sodium chloride (NaCl), 0.1 M sodium hydroxide (NaOH), andwith pH values ranging from 1 to 12.

This disclosure generally relates to systems, structures, and methodsassociated with fluid-transfer valves. In some embodiments, a group ofvalves is formed by sandwiching a pliant diaphragm between afluid-transfer plate and a pressure plate. Each plate may be designedand machined to have specialized channels and bores to direct fluidflow. The fluid-transfer plate (which can also be referred to as theupper plate) contains at least two channels etched or otherwise formedinto its flat upper surface, with each channel connecting to fluidconnectors above the fluid-transfer plate. Multiple bores are machinedor otherwise formed through the fluid-transfer plate, along the lengthof each of the channels to the flat lower surface of the fluid-transferplate. In operation, a fluid may be introduced into one channel from oneof the fluid connectors and, if a fluid valve associated with thechannel is open, then the fluid may flow down through the bores to thelower surface of the fluid-transfer plate. On the lower surface of theplate, the flow is directed from the bores that connect to the firstchannel, through bores that connect with a second channel, and up intothe fluid connector that connects to the second channel. The firstchannel acts as an inlet for the fluid and the second channel acts as anoutlet.

The pressure plate, or lower plate (in some incorporated references thepressure plate may be referred to as the “upper pneumatic plate,”“pneumatic plate,” or “upper plate”), may contain recesses or dimples onits upper surface that can be positioned relative to the fluid-transferplate such that each recess covers at least two bores on the bottom ofthe fluid-transfer plate. Each recess is coupled to a bore which isoperably coupled to a valve that directs the flow of pressurizedmaterial. When pressurized material is forced into a recess, thediaphragm between the plates is pushed against the bottom of thefluid-transfer plate, pressing the diaphragm over the bores covered bythe recess. Such a state may be termed a valve-closed state, because thefluid flow between the covered bores is blocked or closed.

When pressure is removed from the material in the recess, the fluid inthe bores may push the diaphragm down into the recess, creating achannel through which fluid may flow between the bores covered by therecess. During this valve-open state, fluid may flow from boresconnected to one fluid connection to bores connected to anotherconnector. Therefore, by controlling the pressure applied to thematerial in the recesses, a system may control the flow of fluid betweendifferent connections.

Such a valve block may be used in any fluid transfer or controlapplication in which a fluid valve is required. An example of a systemin which such a valve could be applied is described in more detail inU.S. Pat. No. 7,790,040, which is incorporated herein by reference inits entirety. For this and other references incorporated by reference,features of any of the embodiments disclosed in the incorporatedreference may be used in the described embodiments. Similar structuresin each reference may be substituted with structures in anotherreference. In cases where the references disagree, the embodiments orlanguage of the present disclosure will be controlling.

Example Valve Control System

With reference to FIG. 1 , a block diagram of a control system 100 isshown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Control system 100controls the operation of a valve system to direct the flow of fluid ina manner that simulates a moving bed. In some embodiments, controlsystem 100 can be configured to control the operation of the valvesystem in accordance with any other fluid system comprising valves.Control system 100 implements a desired process by controlling thestates (open or closed) of one or more valves of a valve block assemblyand may also control the pumps that direct the flow of fluid into andout of the valve system. The components of control system 100 may bemounted to or otherwise connect to an electronics board in the valvesystem. Control system 100 may include an input interface 102, an outputinterface 104, a computer-readable medium 106, a processor 108, and acontroller application 110.

Different and/or additional components may be incorporated into controlsystem 100. For example, control system 100 may further include acommunication interface. Components of control system 100 may be mountedto the valve system or mounted in a separate device or set of devices.As a result, the communication interface can provide an interface forreceiving and transmitting data between the valve system and one or moreadditional devices hosting components of control system 100 usingvarious protocols, transmission technologies, and media. Thecommunication interface may support communication using varioustransmission media that may be wired or wireless. Thus, the componentsof control system 100 may be connected as appropriate using wires orother coupling methods or wirelessly and may be positioned locally orremotely with respect to the valve system.

Input interface 102 provides an interface for receiving user-inputand/or machine instructions for entry into control system 100 as knownto those skilled in the art. Input interface 102 may use various inputtechnologies including, but not limited to, a keyboard, a pen and touchscreen, a mouse, a track ball, a touch screen, a keypad, voicerecognition, motion recognition, disk drives, remote controllers, inputports, one or more buttons, etc. to allow an external source, such as auser, to enter information into control system 100. The valve system mayhave one or more input interfaces that use the same or a differentinterface technology.

Output interface 104 provides an interface for presenting informationfrom control system 100 to external systems, users, or memory as knownto those skilled in the art. For example, output interface 104 mayinclude an interface to a display, a printer, a speaker, etc. The outputinterface 104 may also include alarm/indicator lights, a networkinterface, a disk drive, a computer memory device, etc. The valve systemmay have one or more output interfaces that use the same or a differentinterface technology.

Computer-readable medium 106 is an electronic holding place or storagefor information so that the information can be accessed by processor 108as known to those skilled in the art. Computer-readable medium 106 caninclude, but is not limited to, any type of random access memory (RAM),any type of read only memory (ROM), any type of flash memory, etc. suchas magnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disk, floppy disk, magneticstrips, . . . ), optical disks (e.g., compact disk (CD), digitalversatile disk (DVD), . . . ), smart cards, flash memory devices, etc.The valve system may have one or more computer-readable media that usethe same or a different memory media technology. The valve system mayhave one or more drives that support the loading of a memory medium suchas a CD, a DVD, a flash memory card, etc.

Processor 108 executes instructions as known to those skilled in theart. The instructions may be carried out by a special purpose computer,logic circuits, or hardware circuits. Thus, processor 108 may beimplemented in hardware, firmware, software, or any combination of thesemethods. The term “execution” is the process of running an applicationor the carrying out of the operation called for by an instruction. Theinstructions may be written using one or more programming language,scripting language, assembly language, etc. Processor 108 executes aninstruction, meaning that it performs the operations called for by thatinstruction. Processor 108 operably couples with input interface 102,output interface 104, computer-readable medium 106, controllerapplication 110, etc. to receive, to send, and to process informationand to control the operations of the valve system. Processor 108 mayretrieve a set of instructions from a permanent memory device such as aROM device and copy the instructions in an executable form to atemporary memory device that is generally some form of RAM. The valvesystem may include a plurality of processors that use the same or adifferent processing technology. In an illustrative embodiment, theinstructions may be stored in computer-readable medium 106.

Controller application 110 includes operations which control the valvesystem and may provide a graphical user interface with selectable andcontrollable functionality to define the processes executed by the valvesystem. The operations may be implemented using hardware, firmware,software, or any combination of these methods. With reference to theillustrative embodiment of FIG. 1 , controller application 110 isimplemented in software stored in computer-readable medium 106 andaccessible by processor 108 for execution of the computer-readableinstructions that embody the operations of controller application 110.The computer-readable instructions of controller application 110 may bewritten using one or more programming languages, assembly languages,scripting languages, etc. The functionality provided by controllerapplication 110 may be distributed among one or more modules and acrossone or more device. For example, controller application 110 may includea module that controls the opening and closing of one or more valvesthat is separate or integrated with a module that controls pump flowrates. Controller application 110 provides control signals to theplurality of electrical connectors, which connect to the valves as wellas to the pumps associated with a plurality of pump connectors thatapply pressure to fluid either entering the valve block at inlets 126 or128 or exiting the valve block through outlets 130 or 132. Althoughnumbered fluid paths 126-132 are referred to as “inlets” and “outlets,”the illustrated structure and orientation of the inlets relative to theoutlets should not be seen as limiting the ways that inlets and/oroutlets are implemented. In some cases, fluid paths may be equivalent oridentical in structure, such that users may change which fluid path isused as inlet and which is used as outlet to the valve. In someembodiments, the changing from inlet to outlet may be automated.

To produce the controlling pressure in each fluid valve, a gas valve isconnected to a reservoir of pressurized gas and to a vent. For example,with reference to FIG. 1 , a first gas valve 118 a is shown connected toa first pressure reservoir 114 a and a first vent 116 a, and a secondgas valve 118 b is shown connected to a second pressure reservoir 114 band a second vent 116 b. First pressure reservoir 114 a and secondpressure reservoir 114 b may be the same or different. First vent 116 aand second vent 116 b may be the same or different. The one or more gasvalves may be designed as normally open or may be designed as normallyclosed. Controller application 110 can be designed to support eithermethod of valve operation. In an illustrative embodiment, the gas valvesare normally closed and are switched at 24 volts. To reduce heat, thevoltage applied to the gas valves may be stepped down to 12 volts orlower after switching while maintaining the state.

With further reference to FIG. 1 , a simplified cross sectional view ofa portion of a valve block is shown connected to first gas valve 118 aand to second gas valve 118 b to illustrate the operation of the valvestates. Pressure plate 120 includes a first recess 122 a and a secondrecess 122 b coupled to a first gas channel 124 a and a second gaschannel 124 b, respectively. First gas channel 124 a and second gaschannel 124 b operably couple to first gas valve 118 a and to second gasvalve 118 b, respectively. Fluid-transfer plate 134 and top plate 136include a first fluid channel (comprised of inlet 126 and outlet 130)and a second fluid channel (comprised of inlet 128 and outlet 132). Asshown with reference to FIG. 1 , pneumatic pressure from second gasvalve 118 b applied to second recess 122 b causes diaphragm 138 to stopthe flow of fluid through the second fluid channel (i.e., from inlet 128to outlet 132). Pneumatic pressure released by first gas valve 118 athrough first gas channel 124 a allows fluid pressure through the firstfluid channel from inlet 126 to deflect diaphragm 138 into first recess122 a thereby allowing the flow of fluid through the first fluid channelfrom inlet 126 to outlet 130.

Diaphragm 138 can be formed of a polymer that is sufficiently pliant topermit deflection when pneumatic pressure is relieved in a pressurechannel, such as first gas channel 124 a. Diaphragm 138 can be of amaterial chosen to be pliable, resistant to tearing and penetration, gasimpermeable, and chemically resistant. For example, such deflection maybe caused by fluid pressure from inlet 126. In that case, the pressurein first gas channel 124 a could be an ambient air pressure, forinstance, so that only the fluid pressure in the first gas channel 124 acauses the deflection, rather than suction in first gas channel 124 a.In an illustrative embodiment, diaphragm 138 may be naturally formed ina substantially flat shape, such that the first recess 122 a is closedin the absence of a pressure differential. In other cases, diaphragm 138may be preformed and/or may be naturally biased in an open (recessed)position in first recess 122 a. In an illustrative embodiment, diaphragm138 may be formed of perfluoroalkoxy (PFA) copolymer resin having athickness of 0.01 inches. Alternatively, other materials and/orthicknesses may be used. In another illustrative embodiment, diaphragm138 can be made of fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP) copolymer resin.

Although some aspects of controlling a valve system are shown in FIG. 1, other aspects of an illustrative valve control system may be found inU.S. Pat. No. 7,806,137, which is incorporated herein by reference inits entirety.

Example Valve Block

FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of a valve block 200 according to anillustrative embodiment. As shown, valve block 200 includes top plate202, fluid-transfer plate 204, and pressure plate 206 with variouspassages, grooves, channels, and bores disposed in the plates. As willbe shown with reference to FIG. 6 , top plate 202, fluid-transfer plate204, and pressure plate 206 may be joined to form a functional valveblock that includes diaphragm 602.

Top plate 202 of valve block 200 has bores formed therethrough, whichalign with features of fluid-transfer plate 204 and/or pressure plate206. For example, bore 208 may align with corresponding bores throughtop plate 202 and pressure plate 206 to provide a cavity through whichstructural supports may be placed. As another example, bore 210 and bore212 may provide fluid passages for receiving and expelling fluidsto/from valve block 200. In particular, bore 210 and bore 212 may bealigned with channel 214 and channel 216, respectively, which are cut orotherwise formed in fluid-transfer plate 204. In use, then, fluid mayenter the valve block through one of bore 210 or bore 212 and be inputinto channel 214 or channel 216.

Top plate 202, fluid-transfer plate 204, and/or pressure plate 206 canbe made of any material that is inert and structurally rigid enough forthe valve block 200 to form the necessary seals between the variousplates. Bore 208 can be used to create a compressive force between topplate 202, fluid-transfer plate 204, and pressure plate 206. Bore 208can also be used to align the various plates and prevent one or more ofthe plates from creeping out of place after initial alignment. Forexample, top plate 202 can be made of stainless steel. In someembodiments, top plate 202, fluid transfer plate 204, and/or pressureplate 206 can be made of material that is less structurally rigid andalternative methods can be used to create a compressive force betweenthe various plates to form the necessary seals and prevent creeping. Forexample, a clamp can be used. In another example, a valve body housingcan be used. In such embodiments, top plate 202, fluid transfer plate204, and/or pressure plate 206 can be made of aluminum or plastic. Ifplastic is used, the plastic can be Class VI plastic that can be used inpharmaceutical processes and/or can be biocompatible. Examples of suchplastics include polyetherimide (PEI), polycarbonate (PC), acetalcopolymer, polypropylene (PP), polyether ether ketone (PEEK),perfluoroalkoxy (PFA), polysulfone (PSU), polyphenylsulfone (PPSU),cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), etc. Insome embodiments, top plate 202, fluid transfer plate 204, and pressureplate 206 can all be made of the same or similar material. In otherembodiments, the various plates can have materials of construction thatvary from one another.

Additionally, the surfaces of top plate 202, fluid-transfer plate 204,and pressure plate 206 can be machined (or otherwise finished) to have asmooth finish. In some embodiments, the surface finish can have aroughness average (Ra) of 8 microinches. The smooth finish can beprovided to create a seal where two plates touch. In some embodiments,instead of a smooth finish, a chemically compatible and/or biocompatiblegasket can be used.

Fluid-transfer plate 204, as will be shown in more detail in FIGS. 3 and4 , may include features for facilitating and controlling fluid flowthrough valve block 200. As shown, fluid-transfer plate 204 may includechannel 214 and channel 216 that may function as common inlet or outletchannels for fluid from bore 210 and/or bore 212. Though not shown inFIG. 2 , channel 214 and channel 216 may each connect to multiple boresthat extend through fluid-transfer plate 204. The combination of bore210 and bore 212 with channel 214 and channel 216 (including the boresthat extend from channel 214 and channel 216 through fluid-transferplate 204) may be considered functional implementations of inlet 126 andoutlet 130 as shown in FIG. 1 .

Similarly, recess 218 and recesses 220, formed in/on pressure plate 206,may be considered implementations of the combination of first recess 122a and second recess 122 b with first gas channel 124 a and second gaschannel 124 b. As shown by recess 218, some embodiments may include asingle recess for controlling fluid transfer through all fluid pathsfrom a set of inlet and outlet channels (e.g., 214 and 216). As shown byrecesses 220, some embodiments may include a separate recess forcontrolling fluid transfer through each fluid path from a set of inletand outlet channels (e.g., 214 and 216). In either case, each of recess218 or recesses 220 may be surrounded by a sealing structure 222 orsealing structures 224. Although sealing structure 222 and sealingstructures 224 are shown as grooves or channels around recess 218 andrecesses 220, other sealing structures may be used. The features ofpressure plate 206 will be explained in more detail with respect to FIG.5 .

FIG. 3 shows features of the top side of a fluid-transfer plate 300. Asshown, in addition to features for providing structural support (boresaround the exterior of the plate), fluid-transfer plate 300 may include,for example, channel 302 and channel 304. Also as shown, channel 302 andchannel 304 may each include a widened area (306 and 310) for receivingfluid into the channel. Although widened area 306 and widened area 310are shown at opposite ends of channel 302 and channel 304, fluidreceiving structures may be placed anywhere along the fluid channels,and need not be limited to a slight rounding and widening of thechannel. In some cases, no alteration is necessary for receiving fluidinto a channel. Although fluid-transfer plate 300 shows two sets ofinlet and outlet channels, and fluid-transfer plate 204 shows three setsof inlet and outlet channels, any number of channels may be used in anillustrative embodiment. Additionally, sets of inlet and outlet channelsmay be shaped, oriented, and connected in ways other than those shown inthe figures. As one alternative example, the inlet and outlet channelsmay be circular or semicircular shape and oriented in an annulararrangement with respect to one another. Many other alternatives arepossible.

Along the length of channel 302 and channel 304, bores 308 and bores 312are formed to provide fluid flow paths through fluid-transfer plate 300.As shown, bores 308 and bore 312 may be offset from the center ofchannel 302 and channel 304, respectively. Such an offset may be usefulin designing valves to transfer fluid at high rates, because the closerthe inlet bores are to their respective outlet bore, the shorter thedistance the fluid must travel. Additionally, if the pressure recessesfor controlling the valves are similar in shape to first recess 122 aand second recess 122 b of FIG. 1 , then the offset bores would be morecentrally located with respect to the pressure recess(es). Inparticular, when a pressure recess has a rounded and/or sloping shape,bores offset towards the center of the pressure recess would be locatedunder a deeper portion of the recess than a bore in the middle ofchannel 302 or channel 304. When open, a bore beneath a deeper recessmay accommodate a faster flow rate because of the larger maximum openvolume above the bore. However, in other embodiments, bores 308 and/orbores 312 may, alternatively, be formed in the center of channel 302 andchannel 304, respectively, or even formed offset to the outside ofchannel 302 and channel 304.

The sizing of bores 308 and bores 312 is an important feature of presentembodiments to optimize fluid flow and pressure drop. In typical fluidtransfer systems, single larger bores are used to maintain a high flowrate by reducing the flow velocity and pressure drop across the valve.Insufficient flow area can result in unacceptable pressure drop and/orflow velocities high enough to cause turbulent flow and/or spontaneousvaporization (“flashing”) of a fluid as fluid passes through the valve.However, the present inventors have recognized that such large-boreimplementations may have inherent limitations in flexible-diaphragmbased valve systems. If the bore diameter becomes too large, forexample, physical damage and/or permanent deformation of the diaphragmcan occur during operation. Physical damage may result in a breach orperforation of the diaphragm. Permanent deformation may result in acompromised (e.g., perforated) seal in a closed state or inability offluid pressure to produce sufficient deflection of the diaphragm intothe recess in the open state.

Because excessive permanent deformation of diaphragm 138 results indecreased performance of the valve block 200, the bores 308 and bores312 should be sized large enough such that sufficient flow is permitted,but sized small enough to prevent an unacceptable amount of permanentdeformation of diaphragm 138. Decreased performance of the valve caninclude a reduced flow rate, blocked flow, and/or unacceptably highpressure drop through the valve in an open state. Permanent deformationof diaphragm can be caused by a combination of pressure and temperature.For example, gas pressure in gas channel 124 a (or gas channel 124 b)can put stress on the elasticity of diaphragm 138 causing permanentdeformation. That is, diaphragm 138 can be permanently deformed if thediaphragm 138 does not return to its original (or substantiallyoriginal) shape under non-pressurized conditions. The extent ofpermanent deformation can be sufficient to prevent the diaphragm fromfully deflecting into the recess under fluid pressure, thereforeimpinging upon and restricting fluid flow from inlet 126 to outlet 130,resulting in increased flow velocity and pressure drop. In anotherexample, if the temperature of the fluid contacting diaphragm is toohigh, diaphragm 138 can become permanently deformed by wearing down theelasticity of the diaphragm 138. In particular, a combination of highfluid temperature and high gas pressure can cause an unacceptable amountof permanent deformation. As such, as the fluid temperature rises, theminimum gas pressure required to cause permanent deformation ofdiaphragm 138 falls.

The diameter size of the bores 308 and bores 312 can be a factor indetermining pressure drop across the diaphragm 138 for a given flowrate. For example, if the diameter size of fluid inlet bores (e.g. 308)is small, the fluid velocity can increase the pressure drop across thediaphragm 138. In another example, if the outlet bores (e.g., 312) aresmall, the outlet bores can restrict flow through the valve, creatinghigher fluid velocity and therefore a higher differential pressureacross the valve at the diaphragm 138. If bores 308 or 312 are toolarge, then the diaphragm 138 can experience deformation that exceedsthe elasticity of the material. That is, the diaphragm 138 can bedeformed in a manner such that the diaphragm 138 does not return to itsoriginal (or substantially original) shape under non-pressurizedconditions.

FIG. 13 is a table that shows the results of an experiment regardingdeformation of a diaphragm of a valve in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment. In the experiment, a test valve in accordance with thepresent disclosure was constructed having four identical rows, each withsix different bore diameters. The six different bore diameters were0.050 inches, 0.063 inches, 0.070 inches, 0.075 inches, 0.094 inches,and 0.099 inches. Four identical diaphragms of 0.01 inch thick PFA wereused, each under different test conditions for twenty-four hours. Thefirst test condition was at a temperature of 20° C. at 150 psi. Thesecond test condition was at a temperature of 20° C. at 300 psi. Thethird test condition was at a temperature of 65° C. at 150 psi. Thefourth test condition was at a temperature of 65° C. at 300 psi. Aftereach test condition, the diaphragm was removed from the valve body andthe deformation of the diaphragm corresponding to the various bores wasmeasured using an analog height indicator. The average deformation ofthe diaphragm in inches corresponding to each bore diameter under eachpressure and temperature condition shown in the table of FIG. 13 . Alsoshown in the table of FIG. 13 is the corresponding pressure increase dueto the deformation calculated using an assumed flow rate of 2.5 L/min ofwater at 20° C. through a valve having the corresponding bore diameterand with a recess depth of 0.020 inches.

As mentioned above, FIG. 13 shows the results under four different testconditions. For example, at a temperature of 65° C. and at a pressure of150 psi, the diaphragm corresponding to the bore diameter of 0.050inches had an average deformation of 0.0012 inches and a 2.4 percent (%)increase in pressure. At the same temperature and pressure, thediaphragm corresponding to the bore diameter of 0.070 inches had anaverage deformation of 0.0019 inches and a 5.3% increase in pressure.

The present inventors have determined that pressure increases greaterthan 10% are unacceptable and correspond to excessive permanentdeformation of the diaphragm. The corresponding deformation ranges from0.0035 inches to 0.005 inches. An “unacceptable” amount of deformationis determined if the valve has either (A) an increase of pressure dropacross the valve of greater than 10 psi at 2.5 L/min of water at 20° C.or (B) permanent deformation of the diaphragm greater than 35% of theoriginal thickness of the diaphragm.

Because a slight amount of permanent deformation of the diaphragm 138can be tolerated, larger bore diameters can be used with less severeprocess conditions. For example, bore diameters of 0.075 inches or morecan be used with fluid pressures of 150 psi and with fluid temperaturesof 20° C. for at least 24 hours without significant permanentdeformation to the diaphragm 138. However, if the fluid pressure israised to 300 psi, enough permanent deformation to the diaphragm 138 canoccur to degrade the performance of the valve.

Another factor that can affect the permanent deformation of diaphragm138 is the shape and depth of recesses 220. In one embodiment, recesses220 can be an oval shape. In other embodiments, recesses 220 can becircular. Depth of recesses 220 can also affect the permanentdeformation of diaphragm 138 because if the depth is too deep, thendeformation of the diaphragm 138 during operation of the valve canexceed an elasticity of the diaphragm 138. In some embodiments, a depthof recesses 220 can be 0.010 inches (10 mil). In another embodiment, adepth of recesses 220 can be 0.020 inches (20 mil). In otherembodiments, a depth of recesses 220 can be between 0.010 inches and0.020 inches. In yet other embodiments, a depth of recesses 220 can beless than 0.010 inches or greater than 0.020 inches.

In some embodiments, the shape of bores 308 and bores 312 can becircular. In other embodiments, the shape of bores 308 and bores 312 canbe oval shaped. In yet other embodiments, the shape of bores 308 andbores 312 can be slot shaped. In some embodiments, the bores 308 andbores 312 can be chamfered. The shape of bores 308 and bores 312 can beany shape designed to minimize permanent deformation of the diaphragm atoperating pressures and temperatures. The shape of bores 308 and bores312 can further be designed such that there is a desired pressure dropand fluid velocity across the valve at the desired flow rate.

In the present disclosure, multiple smaller bores may be used ratherthan a single large bore, in combination with the other disclosedfeatures and systems, in order to accommodate high flow rates withoutthe limitations of large diameter bores. In an illustrative embodiment,each bore may have a diameter of less than 0.094 inches and, in someembodiments, a diameter of 0.070 inches or less. The valve block mayemploy multiple bores from a single fluid source and/or multiple boresleading to a single outlet. The example of FIG. 3 shows channel 302 andchannel 304 having seven bores each. In some embodiments, a greaternumber of bores may be included in each channel in order to accommodatea faster flow rate and/or reduce pressure drop. In some embodiments, agreater number of bores may be provided that have a smaller diametersuch that the valve can have a similar pressure drop and fluid velocityat a given flow rate to a valve with a fewer number of bores with alarger diameter. The embodiment of FIG. 3 , however, may be sufficientlyoptimized by utilizing seven bores of about 0.07 inches in diameter,spaced about 0.25 inches apart (from center of bore to center of bore)along the inlet or outlet channel (304 or 302) and a distance of about0.25 inches between one inlet bore and one outlet bore on the upper sideof the fluid transfer plate. Channel 302 and channel 304 may beseparated by about 0.312 inches from the center of the channel 302 tothe center of the channel 304 on the top side of the fluid-transferplate 300.

FIG. 4 shows features of the bottom side of fluid-transfer plate 300 inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment. As with the top side offluid-transfer plate 300, shown in FIG. 3 , the bottom side of fluidtransfer plate 300 contains bores therethrough for structural support orfluid transfer. In particular, bores 400 and bores 402 correspond withbores 308 and 312 of the top side of plate 300. Between bores 400 andbores 402, there is a raised portion 404 of fluid-transfer plate 300that may act as a barrier between the inlet and outlet bores. Inparticular, as shown in the simplified valve structure of FIG. 1 , whenthe diaphragm is pushed up onto the bottom side of the fluid-transferplate 300, the contact between the diaphragm and raised portion 404constitutes a fluid barrier, preventing flow from bores 400 to bores402. When in an open valve state, fluid flows up over raised portion 404from the inlet bores (e.g., 400) to the outlet bores (e.g., 402) andthrough fluid-transfer plate 300 from the inlet channel (e.g., 302) tothe outlet channel (e.g., 304). In an illustrative embodiment, bores 400may be sufficiently equivalent to bores 402, such that users may chooseto flow fluid in either direction. The illustrated sizing and spacing ofthe bores on the bottom side of fluid-transfer plate 300 are merely forillustrative purposes, and are not intended to be limiting the scope ofthe disclosure.

As will be shown in greater detail in FIG. 6 , fluid-transfer plate 204may be brought into connection with a pressure plate, such as pressureplate 206, in order to control the opening and closing of the fluidchannels, as previously discussed. FIG. 5 shows a perspective drawing ofan example pressure plate 206 that can be used in combination with afluid-transfer plate to produce a valve system. As discussed above, aflexible diaphragm 602 is placed between the fluid-transfer plate 204and the pressure plate 206. In order to provide space for structuralsupports, bores are bored or otherwise formed at least partially throughpressure plate 206, as shown by the peripheral bores shown in FIG. 5 .Additionally as shown, pressure plate 206 includes recesses, such asrecess 218 and recesses 220, which may be aligned with bores and raisedportions on the bottom of a fluid-transfer plate 204.

As discussed above, a valve diaphragm composed of a pliant pressureresponsive material (e.g., diaphragm 138 or 602) is disposed between theupper surface of the pressure plate (e.g., 120 or 206) and the lowersurface of the fluid-transfer plate (e.g., 300 or 204). The diaphragm138 lacks bores except where used for screws or other fasteners forholding the assembly together. For use in SMB chromatography, there is abarrier plate or gasket forming a sealing interface at the upper surfaceof the fluid-transfer plate (e.g., 300 or 204), forming an upper barrierwall to the fluid egress and ingress channels (e.g., channel 302 andchannel 304). The plate or gasket also has column access bores tocommunicate with chromatographic columns and the ingress and egresschannels. Finally above the barrier plate or gasket there is an anchor(top) plate 202 having an upper and a lower surface containing columncommunicating bores in alignment with the chromatographic columns andthe ingress and egress channels.

Recess 218 and recesses 220 may each include a recessed portion 502 andrecessed portion 502B, some form of fluid seal (e.g., sealing structure222 and sealing structures 224), and bore 506, bores 508, bore 506B andbore 508B. Bore 506 may be considered the functional implementation offirst gas channel 124 a and second gas channel 124 b shown in FIG. 1 .In some embodiments, bore 506 and bore 506B may be a pressure inlet anda venting outlet, used respectively for increasing the pressure inrecessed portion 502 and recessed portion 502B in order to produce avalve closed state, and for venting said pressure to establish a valveopen state. Bores 508 and bore 508B may be pressure inlet ports tosealing structure 222 and sealing structures 224 (which can be o-ringchannels). Sealing structure 222 and sealing structures 224 may be acircumferential groove or channel encompassing the perimeter of recessedportion 502 and recessed portion 502B and containing any type of fluidsealing mechanism that may maintain pressure in recessed portion 502 andrecessed portion 502B. For example, a fluid sealing mechanism installedwithin sealing structure 222 may be an o-ring, flexible gasket, bladegasket, labyrinth seal, U-cup, a pressure cup, or a combination of theseor other sealing architectures. Similarly, sealing structures 224 arelocated around the perimeters of recesses 220 and may contain a fluidsealing mechanism as described above with reference to sealing structure222. Pressure may be applied to sealing structure 222 and sealingstructures 224 through bores 508 and bore 508B to increase the sealforce applied by the fluid sealing mechanism. In an example embodiment,fluid pressure through bores 508 and bore 508B may be independent of thepressure/flow of pressurized material through bore 506 and bore 506B.More, fewer, or different bores, seals, and structures than those shownin the figures may be utilized in an example recess. Although elements224, 502B, 506B, and 508B are only labeled with respect to one ofrecesses 220, FIG. 5 shows that each of recesses 220 may include similarstructures.

As shown, in addition to a single pressure valve (e.g., recess 218)controlling all channels of a valve inlet/outlet, multiple recesses(e.g., recesses 220) may individually control fluid flow between eachset of bores. Although the example of FIGS. 2 and 5 show four recesses,any number of recesses may be utilized in order to ensure as flexible astructure as needed for a particular application. In practice, sinceeach set of bores may connect to the same inlet or outlet channel, theindividual control of the sets of bores may be used primarily incontrolling the particular flow rate of fluid. For example, if a certainapplication requires a fluid to maintain a particular flow regime (e.g.,laminar, turbulent, subsonic, supersonic, transitional), establish aspecific linear flow velocity, or maintain or establish a certainpressure differential, then the number of fluid pathways utilized may beadjusted to cause fluid to conform to the desired flow regime. Asanother example, if a system detects that a valve around a particularset of bores has become damaged, the system may responsively cut offfluid flow through the damaged valve by maintaining a continuous closedstate for that valve. Other example applications of the independentcontrol of different fluid channels may also be used. Additionally, thevalves between one inlet and outlet need not be limited to either all asingle collective valve or independent control. For example, acombination of multiple-bore valves and single-bore valves may beproduced.

Any controllable material may be used as a source of pressure inpressure plate 206. In order to maintain independent control of thedifferent valves, a system may have multiple inlets 510 for pressurizedmaterial. In particular, the number of pressurized material inlets maybe equal to the number of controllable recesses in the plate. Thepressure of each of these inlets 510 may be controlled at the valveblock or in a separate the control system connected to inlets 510. In anexample embodiment, the pressurized material in pressure plate 206 isdifferent than the fluid being transferred in fluid-transfer plate 300.Accordingly, the material and manufacture of the diaphragm may beselected to prevent mixing between the pressurized material and thetransferred fluid.

FIG. 6 shows a cross-section of valve block 200 as assembled, taken atline A-B (shown in FIG. 5 ). As shown, bore 208 (which can be used forstructural support) extends into each of top plate 202, fluid-transferplate 204, diaphragm 602, and pressure plate 206. Additionally, bore 210is positioned such that it connects with the widened area of channel 214(which can be an inlet channel), providing essential fluid flow down torecess 220. At recess 220, pressurized material from inlet 510 mayprovide sufficient pressure to diaphragm 602 in order to close recess220 and prevent flow of the fluid from channel 214 to channel 216.

FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of an assembled valve block 700 withseven inlet bores 710 and seven outlet bores 712 in accordance with anillustrative embodiment. Valve block 700 has a top plate 702, afluid-transfer plate 704, a pressure plate 706, and a diaphragm 738. Asshown in FIG. 7 , fluid-transfer plate 704 can be comprised of multiple(e.g., three) plates. The use of multiple plates can be useful inmanufacturing the various bores and channels. In some embodimentsfluid-transfer plate 704 can be comprised of more than three or lessthan three individual plates.

Top plate 702 can include an inlet connection bore 730 and an outletconnection bore 732. Inlet connection bore 730 and outlet connectionbore 732 can be configured to fluidly connect valve block 700 to amanufacturing, chemical, biological, or other fluid based process (e.g.,an SMB process). Inlet connection bore 730 can be configured to fluidlyconnect inlet bores 710 with an inlet from the fluid based process.Outlet connection bore 732 can be configured to fluidly connect outletbores 712 with an outlet to the fluid based process.

Fluid-transfer plate 704 includes inlet channels 734 and an outletchannel 736. Inlet channels 734 are configured to fluidly connect inletconnection bore 730 to inlet channel 714. Outlet channel 736 issimilarly configured to fluidly connect outlet connection bore 732 tooutlet channel 716. Although FIG. 7 shows two straight sections of inletchannels 734, any number of straight sections can be used (e.g., onestraight section, as in outlet channel 736). Further, the straightsections of inlet channels 734 need not be straight, but can be anyshape configured to transfer fluid from inlet connection bore 730 toinlet channel 714. Similarly, although FIG. 7 shows a single straightsection comprising outlet channel 736, any number of straight sectionscan be used (e.g., two straight sections, as in inlet channel 734).Further, the straight sections of outlet channels 736 need not bestraight, but can be any shape configured to transfer fluid from outletchannel 716 to outlet connection bore 732.

Fluid-transfer plate 704 can further comprise inlet channel 714, outletchannel 716, a plurality of inlet bores 710, and a plurality of outletbores 712. Although FIG. 7 shows seven inlet bores 710 and seven outletbores 712, any other number of inlet bores 710 and outlet bores 712 canbe used. For example, fluid-transfer plate 704 can have five inlet bores710 and five outlet bores 712. In another example, fluid-transfer plate704 can have one inlet bore 710 and one outlet bore 712. In yet anotherexample, fluid-transfer plate 704 can have more than seven inlet bores710 and more than seven outlet bores 712. Inlet channel 714 fluidlyconnects inlet channel 734 to each of inlet bores 710. Similarly, outletchannel 714 fluidly connects outlet channel 736 with each of outletbores 712.

Pressure plate 706 includes a recess 718, a sealing structure 722, and apressure inlet 740. Pressure inlet 740 can be configured to supply orrelease pressurized material into and out of recess 718. Sealingstructure 722 can be configured to prevent the pressurized material fromescaping from the recess 718 except through the pressure inlet 740.Sealing structure 722 can further be configured to prevent process fluidfrom escaping from recess 718 except through outlet bores 712 (or inletbores 710). Diaphragm 738 can be disposed between the pressure plate 706and the fluid-transfer plate 704. As discussed above, as pressurizedmaterial is introduced into recess 718 via pressure inlet 740, diaphragm738 can be pressed against fluid-transfer plate 704, thereby preventingfluid from flowing between inlet bores 710 and outlet bores 712. Aspressurized material is removed from recess 718, fluid pressure fromfluid-transfer plate 704 can cause the diaphragm 738 to deflect intorecess 718, thereby permitting fluid to flow between inlet bores 710 andoutlet bores 712 through recess 718. Gas valve 742 can be configured tointroduce pressurized material into pressure inlet 740 and recess 718.Gas valve 742 can further be configured to remove pressurized materialfrom pressure inlet 740 and recess 718.

FIGS. 8A and 8B show cross-sections of an assembled valve block 700 withseven inlet bores 710 and seven outlet bores 712 in accordance with anillustrative embodiment. FIG. 8A is a side perspective cross-sectionview of the valve block 700 shown in FIG. 7 . FIG. 8B is a sideperspective cross-section of the valve block 700 shown in FIGS. 7 and8A, with a cross section indicated by lines B-B in FIG. 8A. The valveblocks shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B can have the same elements configured inthe same way as discussed above with reference to FIG. 7 .

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of an assembled valve block 700 withfive inlet bores 710 and five outlet bores 712 in accordance with anillustrative embodiment. FIGS. 10A and 10B show cross-sections of anassembled valve block 700 with five inlet bores 710 and five outletbores 712 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. FIG. 10A is aside perspective cross-section view of the valve block 700 shown in FIG.9 . FIG. 10B is a side perspective cross-section of the valve block 700shown in FIGS. 9 and 10A, with a cross section indicated by lines B-B inFIG. 10A. The valve blocks shown in FIGS. 9, 10A and 10B can have thesame elements configured to operate in a similar fashion as discussedabove with reference to FIG. 7 .

FIGS. 11A-11F show various views of an assembled valve block comprisingmultiple valves in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. As shownin FIG. 11A, a valve block with multiple valves can have varyingconfigurations of inlet connection bore 730 and outlet connection bore732 (and corresponding inlet channels 714 and outlet channels 716). Inthe embodiment shown in FIGS. 11A and 11D, the valve block can haveinlet connection bores 730 that can provide a fluid inlet to multiplevalves. FIG. 11D is a front view of the valve block and FIG. 11F is arear view of the valve block. Additionally, the valve block can havemultiple outlet connection bores 732 that provide a fluid outlet formultiple valves. In some embodiments, the inlet connection bore 730 canact as an outlet and the outlet connection bore 732 can act as an inlet.FIGS. 11B and 11C show a perspective view of the valve block withmultiple valves and the various bores and channels corresponding to eachvalve in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. FIG. 11E shows acut-away side perspective of a valve block with multiple valves inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment.

FIGS. 12A-12G show various views of an assembled valve block comprisingmultiple valves in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. FIG. 12Ashows a side perspective of the valve block. As shown in FIGS. 12C, 12D,and 12E, the valve block can have multiple valves within the same valveblock. FIG. 12F shows an embodiment of the bottom side of afluid-transfer plate 704 that comprises five inlet bores 710 and fiveoutlet bores 712 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. As shownin FIG. 12F, the inlet bores 710 and the outlet bores 712 can beconfigured in an annular shape. FIG. 12G shows a view of pressure plate706 with gas valves 742 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.FIGS. 12B and 12C show perspective views of the outside surface of anassembled valve block comprising multiple valves in accordance with anillustrative embodiment.

The construction and arrangement of the elements of the systems andmethods as shown in the illustrative embodiments are illustrative only.Although only a few embodiments of the present disclosure have beendescribed in detail, those skilled in the art who review this disclosurewill readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g.,variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions ofthe various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, useof materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departingfrom the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited.Additional information regarding the present valve block designs arealso discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,196,603, which is incorporated hereinby reference in its entirety.

Additionally, in the subject description, the words “illustrative” or“exemplary” are used to mean serving as an example, instance, orillustration. Any embodiment or design described herein as“illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred oradvantageous over other embodiments or designs. Rather, use of the wordillustrative is intended to present concepts in a concrete manner.Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included withinthe scope of the present disclosure. The order or sequence of anyprocess or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according toalternative embodiments. Any means-plus-function clause is intended tocover the structures described herein as performing the recited functionand not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures.Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be madein the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the preferredand other illustrative embodiments without departing from scope of thepresent disclosure or from the scope of the appended claims.

All such variations are within the scope of the disclosure. Likewise,software implementations could be accomplished with standard programmingtechniques with rule-based logic and other logic to accomplish thevarious connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps anddecision steps.

What is claimed is:
 1. A valve block comprising: a pressure platecomprising: a surface; and a plurality of recesses fillable with amaterial on the surface; a fluid transfer plate comprising an inletchannel, an outlet channel, a plurality of inlet bores extending fromthe inlet channel to a surface of the fluid transfer plate, and aplurality of outlet bores extending from the outlet channel to thesurface of the fluid transfer plate, wherein at least one of theplurality of inlet bores and the plurality of outlet bores is arrangedalong a perimeter of a polygonal shape, wherein the inlet channel, theoutlet channel, the plurality of inlet bores, and the plurality ofoutlet bores are contained within a valve of the valve block; and adiaphragm disposed between the surface of the pressure plate and thesurface of the fluid transfer plate, wherein the diaphragm is configuredto prevent fluid flow from at least one inlet bore of the plurality ofinlet bores to at least one outlet bore of the plurality of outlet boreswhen a corresponding recess of the plurality of recesses is filled withthe material; wherein each inlet bore of the plurality of inlet borescorresponds to a different outlet bore of the plurality of outlet bores;and wherein each recess of the plurality of recesses is configured tocontrol fluid flow through one inlet bore of the plurality of inletbores and the corresponding different outlet bore of the plurality ofoutlet bores.
 2. The valve block of claim 1, wherein the plurality ofinlet bores is arranged along a perimeter of a first polygonal shape andthe plurality of outlet bores is arranged along a perimeter of a secondpolygonal shape.
 3. The valve block of claim 1, wherein each inlet boreof the plurality of inlet bores has a diameter of 0.070 inches or less,and wherein each of the plurality of outlet bores has a diameter of0.070 inches or less.
 4. The valve block of claim 3, wherein the valveblock is further configured to allow 2.5 liters per minute of fluidthrough the plurality of inlet bores at a pressure drop of less than orequal to 10 pounds per square inch per valve.
 5. The valve block ofclaim 1, wherein each recess of the plurality of recesses comprises anoval shaped cross section, and wherein a depth of each recess is between0.01 inches and 0.02 inches.
 6. The valve block of claim 1, furthercomprising a top plate disposed adjacent to the fluid transfer plate,the top plate comprising an inlet connection bore and an outletconnection bore, wherein the inlet connection bore is fluidly connectedto the inlet channel and the outlet connection bore is fluidly connectedto the outlet channel.
 7. The valve block of claim 1, wherein a diameterof each inlet bore of the plurality of inlet bores is configured toprevent permanent deformation of the diaphragm, and wherein permanentdeformation of the diaphragm corresponds to a deformation height of thediaphragm that is greater than or equal to thirty-five percent of athickness of the diaphragm.
 8. The valve block of claim 1, wherein eachrecess of the plurality of recesses is independently pressurized.
 9. Thevalve block of claim 1, wherein the fluid transfer plate furthercomprises a raised portion disposed on the surface of the fluid transferplate between the plurality of inlet bores and the plurality of outletbores, the raised portion extending away from the fluid transfer plateto create a seal between the diaphragm and the fluid transfer plate whenthe valve is in a closed state.
 10. The valve block of claim 1, furthercomprising: a second plurality of inlet bores disposed in the fluidtransfer plate; and a second plurality of outlet bores disposed in thefluid transfer plate, wherein the second plurality of inlet bores andthe second plurality of outlet bores are included within a second valveof the valve block.
 11. A valve block comprising: a fluid-transferplate; a pressure plate; and a plurality of valves, wherein each valvecomprises: an inlet channel formed in the fluid-transfer plate; anoutlet channel formed in the fluid-transfer plate; a plurality of inletbores extending from the inlet channel, wherein the inlet bores of theplurality of inlet bores are distributed along a perimeter of a firstpolygonal shape; a plurality of outlet bores extending from the outletchannel, wherein the outlet bores of the plurality of outlet bores aredistributed along a perimeter of a second polygonal shape; a pluralityof recesses Tillable with a material, each recess formed on the pressureplate; and a diaphragm disposed between a surface of the fluid-transferplate and a surface of the pressure plate, wherein the diaphragm isconfigured to selectively control flow of a fluid from the plurality ofinlet bores to the plurality of outlet bores; wherein each inlet bore ofthe plurality of inlet bores corresponds to a different outlet bore ofthe plurality of outlet bores; and wherein each recess of the pluralityof recesses is configured to control fluid flow through an inlet bore ofthe plurality of inlet bores and the corresponding outlet bore of theplurality of outlet bores.
 12. The valve block of claim 11, wherein eachvalve further comprises a top plate disposed adjacent to the fluidtransfer plate, the top plate comprising an inlet connection bore and anoutlet connection bore, wherein the inlet connection bore is fluidlyconnected to the inlet channel and the outlet connection bore is fluidlyconnected to the outlet channel.
 13. The valve block of claim 11,wherein each inlet bore of the plurality of inlet bores has a diameterof 0.070 inches or less, and wherein each outlet bore of the pluralityof outlet bores has a diameter of 0.070 inches or less.
 14. The valveblock of claim 11, wherein each inlet bore of the plurality of inletbores has an annular cross sectional shape.
 15. The valve block of claim11, wherein each recess of the plurality of recesses has an oval shapedcross section.
 16. The valve block of claim 11, wherein the firstpolygonal shape is a same shape as the second polygonal shape.
 17. Avalve block comprising: a fluid-transfer plate; a pressure plate; and aplurality of valves, wherein each valve comprises: an inlet channelformed in the fluid-transfer plate; an outlet channel formed in thefluid-transfer plate; a plurality of inlet bores extending from theinlet channel; a plurality of outlet bores extending from the outletchannel, wherein at least one of the plurality of inlet bores and theplurality of outlet bores is distributed along a polygonal shape; arecess fillable with a material on the pressure plate; and a diaphragmdisposed between a surface of the fluid-transfer plate and a surface ofthe pressure plate, wherein the diaphragm is configured to selectivelycontrol flow of a fluid from the plurality of inlet bores to theplurality of outlet bores.
 18. The valve block of claim 17, wherein adiameter of the plurality of inlet bores is configured to preventpermanent deformation of the diaphragm.
 19. The valve block of claim 17,wherein the plurality of inlet bores comprises seven inlet bores, andwherein the plurality of outlet bores comprises seven outlet bores. 20.The valve block of claim 17, further comprising separate gas valves toindependently pressurize each of the plurality of recesses.